Water Control System that saves 9,200 gallons of water per tree each year makes Mid East debut at AGRAME

The 2014 edition of the region’s largest agribusiness and veterinary trade events to commence in Dubai

Dubai, UAE, 24 March 2014: A new water containment system that helps reduce water usage by 9,200 gallons per tree each year, a 92 per cent saving will be launched at AGRA Middle East, opening tomorrow at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.  

Distributed in the GCC by Germany-based ILS Global, the new system comprises a cone-shaped patented tree guard called Tree T Pee, made from 100 per cent recycled plastic, and is positioned at the base of young trees to reduce water use, fertiliser and fuel consumption, and to promote growth.

Tree T Pee stores the water from the micro jet sprayers into the cone creating a mini-greenhouse around the tree.  This greenhouse directs the water and liquid fertiliser to the roots promoting up to a 30 per cent increase in the growth of new trees. 

Philipp Mintchin, Founder of ILS Global, said: “On average, a grower is using 10,000 gallons of water per tree each year. When using the Tree T Pee, the water usage goes down to 800 gallons per year, a 92 per cent saving.”

Mintchin added “Over 5,000 acres of Tree T Pees have been installed in Florida, USA so far and the growers have seen phenomenal results. This is the first time it’s being introduced in the GCC.

“Our primary objective is to help tackle the increasing problem of water conservation in one of the most arid regions in the world and make a difference in the agricultural sector one tree at a time.

“There are many benefits of using Tree T Pee’s.  They reduce the cost for operation, and they are also environmentally friendly.  By encompassing water to where it is needed, growers can save a substantial reduction in water, fuel, fertiliser and herbicide costs.”

Richard Pavitt, Exhibition Director for AGRA Middle East, said: “The scarcity of water in dry areas is, and always has been, a major challenge to agricultural production. The U.N Food and Agriculture Organisation reported that except for Europe and North America, agriculture is by far the biggest user of water, accounting for about 69 per cent of all global withdrawals. The search is therefore on to find novel ways to improve the efficiency of the water used in irrigated agriculture.

“Products like the Tree T Pee are another step towards facilitating the water problems in the Middle East and promoting sustainable agricultural growth in the region.”

AGRA Middle East returns with two dedicated industry conferences; the Agribusiness Outlook Forum and the Poultry Outlook Forum. A major highlight of the event is the AgraME Awards, recognising individuals and organisations that have contributed to the growth and development of the agricultural industry with focus on best practices and innovative approach. 

The three-day event is held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment & Water, and is sponsored by platinum sponsor Al Dahra Agriculture and supported by the UAE Ministry of Environment & Water.

AGRA Middle East is co-located with VET Middle East, the leading event for the bourgeoning veterinary industry in the region. The two events are open from 10:00am – 6:00pm daily.